5 Things We Can Learn From Tim Duncan

He tallied 19 and 5, shook hands with the opponent, and walked off. Is there not a more appropriate way for Tim Duncan to end his career? There was no Kobe/Jeter farewell tour for ‘The Big Fundamental’, nor did he want one. The best power forward of all time knew he was just that, and knew he didn’t have to gloat about it. Let’s take time to reflect on a great career, especially considering he’s the type of guy to fade into the sunset and never hear from again (although I think he may coach one day).

1. Loyalty Still Pays Off

How ironic that a guy who played his entire 19 year career with one team retires just days after Kevin Durant signs with the Warriors. This isn’t a shot at Durant (okay yes it is), but the free agency era in sports has all but killed loyalty. The Reggie Millers, Dirk Nowitzkis, and John Stocktons of the world are rare. Duncan not only spent his entire career in San Antonio, but took a pay cut on numerous occasions so the team would be competitive. Safe to say that it worked out, as the Spurs never experienced a losing season and won five championships during the Duncan era.

2. Bet On Your Strengths

Low post skills, passing, defense, bank shots. Duncan played in a unique era. That skill set was vital for a big man in the 90’s, but is almost nonexistent in today’s game. Yet he never changed. Maybe he started shooting a few more mid range jumpers but all-in-all, his game stayed the same. I’d say it worked out, 15 All-Star appearances doesn’t lie.

3. The Game is Mental

Duncan has a degree in Psychology and believed that emotion was a sign of weakness on the basketball court. He was notorious for complaining about foul calls, but aside from that you’d be hard pressed to get anything more than a fist pump out of him. This doesn’t mean he wasn’t a master of psychological warfare. Check out the look on his face when Dwight Howard gets ejected, after Duncan had dominated him for an entire playoff series.

4. Good Guys Still Win

Tell me one time Tim Duncan has been arrested, fought with a teammate, got a coach fired, showed up to camp out of shape, or had a bad contract negotiation. In a world where many athletes are exposed as douchebags, Duncan is truly a classy person. Ask his teammates. More importantly, ask his opponents.

5. Be True To Yourself

Ever see a fighter try to hype up a fight, but it comes off as robotic and awkward? It’s just not them. Duncan is one of the top ten players of all time. Yeah he had some endorsements, but this guy could have made ridiculous money in sponsorships. He chose not to because it’s not what he is about. He’s not on social media. He wears plain clothing. He plays Dungeons and Dragons (that’s not a joke).